For over 60 years, TenCate has been shaping the future of artificial turf, crafting high-performance surfaces that serve communities and athletes alike. As a trusted leader in the industry, TenCate produces artificial turf that balances durability, safety, and its continual pursuit toward environmental responsibility. But what exactly goes into making high-quality turf, and why does it matter?

Understanding the materials behind artificial turf is key to appreciating why TenCate’s approach stands out. Committed to producing safe, high-performance fibers, the company ensures every field and sports complex is built to last — without compromising on performance.

Harmless and Durable Materials

When people hear “artificial turf,” they may wonder what it’s actually made from. Unlike early versions of synthetic turf that felt rough and unnatural, today’s best artificial grass is engineered for comfort, longevity, and player-best performance. TenCate’s artificial grass fields are crafted from the same high-quality materials found in sports equipment and athletic wear — like polyethylene and polypropylene which go into products we use every day.

Most artificial turf fields use polyethylene (PE) fibers, which create a realistic grass-like texture. PE is known for its durability and resilience, making it ideal for sports field turf, including soccer, baseball, and football fields. The K29 backing used in Pivot^® and tufted sports turf consists of two layers: one layer is 100% PP and the second layer is a blend of PET and PP. The backing plays a crucial role as well, reinforcing the structure of the turf to prevent wear and tear over time. Whether it’s a community installation or a professional artificial turf football field, know that TenCate turf is made to meet or exceed ASTM and FIFA standards.

Eliminating Harmful Chemicals

With any product that sees heavy use, especially in sports and community spaces, its interaction with players is a top priority. A major concern in the artificial turf industry has been the presence of potentially harmful chemicals, particularly PFAS. Since October of 2023, TenCate has taken a firm stance on this issue by ensuring its artificial turf is manufactured without added PFAS chemicals, offering peace of mind for athletes, families, and communities.

Not only does TenCate manufacture turf without added PFAS, it also meets strict environmental and health regulations, including compliance with California’s Prop 65.

Advancing the Next Generation of Turf

The world of artificial turf is constantly evolving, and TenCate continues to push the boundaries with new technology. One of its most exciting innovations is Pivot^® Performance Turf, a next-generation solution that addresses both performance and longevity. Unlike traditional turf systems that rely on performance infill, Pivot^® is designed to deliver a consistently even playing surface without it. Based on the engineering of Pivot’s unique fiber compositions, quantity and fiber density, TenCate provides a 12-year-warranty — as opposed to the 8-year warranty traditionally provided with conventional infilled turf systems.

Beyond performance, TenCate is also tackling one of the biggest challenges in the turf industry: end of life. Many people wonder, “Is artificial grass bad for the environment?” Or, “Is artificial grass good for the environment?” The answer depends on how it’s made. TenCate is leading the charge by ensuring that Pivot turf is fully recyclable after its 12-year warranty, reducing waste and making it a responsible choice for those looking to minimize their environmental footprint.¹

The Future of Artificial Turf

From artificial grass for sports fields to recyclable artificial grass solutions, TenCate continues to set the bar high. By manufacturing its products without added PFAS, prioritizing its pursuit of recyclability, and designing turf that performs at the highest level, the company is redefining what synthetic turf can be. Whether you’re considering an artificial turf installation for a stadium, community park, or local school, choosing a supplier committed to safety and sustainability makes all the difference.

TenCate’s legacy is built on delivering high-quality artificial turf that doesn’t just look great but also supports healthier communities through extended activity and use compared to natural grass fields. The next time you step onto a sports field, you just might be experiencing the result of decades of research, engineering, and a commitment to doing things the right way.

¹Turf recycling may not be available in all areas. Check with your local turf rep to learn more about TenCate turf recycling solutions.